As Senior Manager of Complex Care Coordination at UPMC, Shelly Ciaramella partners closely with frontline discharge planners, clinical staff, clinical leaders, and community resources to reduce barriers to care and improve outcomes for some of the most vulnerable patients. After referring countless patients to Family House, Shelly reached out as a family member in need. This is her story, in her own words.
My personal experience profoundly shaped my support of Family House. During my brother’s illness, while he was receiving care at the VA Pittsburgh Healthcare Center after serving in Iraq and Afghanistan, our family faced an incredibly challenging and emotional time. He required frequent hospitalizations and complex procedures, and my mother wanted nothing more than to be by his side every day. However, she was uncomfortable driving in the city, and navigating hospital visits was frightening and overwhelming for her.
At the same time, I was working long hours downtown, making it difficult to bring her daily as she wanted and still balance work and bedside support. It quickly became a question of how often we could realistically be present for him, something no family should have to worry about. Drawing on my professional experience, I reached out to Family House, this time not as a nurse, but as a family member in need. From the very beginning, their team met us with compassion and immediate support, arranging accommodations that changed everything for our family.
Because of Family House, my mother had reliable transportation, a safe and welcoming place to rest, and the ability to visit my brother as often as she wished. Knowing she was supported allowed me to focus during the workday and, in the evenings, spend meaningful time at my brother’s bedside, helping him and advocating alongside the care team. My mother found comfort not only in the space itself, but in the community that surrounded her, sharing meals, conversations, and moments with other families who truly understood what she was going through.
Although my brother ultimately passed away, Family House gave us the priceless gift of time, presence, and peace during his final chapter.
They provided comfort, stability, and compassion when we needed it most, ensuring we could remain close to him without added burdens. That experience left a lasting impression on me and continues to fuel my deep appreciation and support for Family House and its mission.
Thank you, Family House.
Shelly Ciaramella
